What is "fibropapillomatosis"

Fibropapillomatosis (FP) is a disease specific to sea turtles. The condition is characterized by benign epithelial tumours on the surface of biological tissues. A herpesvirus is believed to be the causative agent of the disease, while turtle leeches are suspected mechanical vectors, transmitting the disease to other individuals. The disease is thought to have a multifactorial etiology, including a tumour-promoting phase that is possibly caused by biotoxins or contaminants. FP exists all over the world but it is most prominent in warmer climates affecting up to 50%-70% of some populations.